Phill Read
Friday 16th February 2024
In a landmark moment for the heart valve disease community, Heart Valve Voice proudly announces the election of its new Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Phill Read. With an unmatched determination to support patients, and a profound understanding of the challenges faced by patients, Phill marks a significant milestone as the first patient to lead the charity’s Board.
Heart valve disease affects millions across the UK, presenting a range of complex challenges for patients and their families. From diagnosis to treatment and ongoing management, navigating this journey requires not only medical expertise but also empathy and an understanding of the patient experience. In electing Phill Read, Heart Valve Voice has affirmed its commitment to amplifying patient voices and prioritising their needs at every level of decision-making.
The appointment of Phill Read reflects our commitment to patient-centred leadership within the heart valve disease community. As a longtime advocate of the condition, Phill brings a unique perspective that resonates with patients and caregivers alike. Phill’s journey from diagnosis to advocacy serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to advocate for better pathways, support, and awareness.
Dr Chris Arden, a longstanding member of the Board, said, "We are thrilled to welcome Phill as our new Chairman. His insight and dedication to improving the lives of fellow patients make him an exceptional leader for our organisation." Another trustee, Cardiac Valve Nurse Specialist, Kerry Pena, echoed this sentiment, saying, "The appointment of Phill signifies a bold step towards patient empowerment. We look forward to working alongside him to further our mission.”
Celebrating this significant milestone, Heart Valve Voice's Executive Director, Wil Woan, emphasised the significance of having a patient advocate at the helm. "We are proud to have Phill as the first patient elected as Chairman of our Board. His lived experience will guide our efforts in providing essential support and resources to those affected by heart valve disease. This appointment underscores our commitment to putting patients at the forefront of everything we do.”
As Phill assumes his new role, he brings with him a vision of hope and resilience for the heart valve disease community. Since being treated in 2021, Phill has worked tirelessly advocating for patients and their families, speaking to regulators, policymakers, and news outlets worldwide to advocate for change that improves the patient experience. He brings a wealth of experience as a valve patient, as well as extensive business experience from his professional life.
In the coming weeks, Phill will set out his objectives for his first 100 days as Chairman, and long-term goals for what he wants to achieve during his time in post. On behalf of our patient community, we congratulate Phill on his appointment and wish him well during his tenure as Chairman.
On his new appointment, Phill Read, said “It is a huge honour to be the first patient appointed Chair of Heart Valve Voice's Board of Trustees. Following on from the incredible work of our previous Chair, Simon Ray, I'll be championing the patient voice and ensuring patient experience is at the heart of all that I do. Thank you to the rest of the Board for selecting me, and I look forward to the challenge ahead!"